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HOW WE REACH
As of January 2025, we focus exclusively on supporting Victim Assistance Specialists and their work with victims of human trafficking crimes. This means we only provide assistance in collaboration with designated government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Justice, and other law enforcement. Our current efforts center on providing safe flights and critical gap assistance to help ensure victims working with law enforcement agencies under this framework receive the support and protection they need.
While this shift means we no longer provide direct services outside this framework, our mission remains the same: promoting the welfare, safety, dignity, and long-term well-being of individuals, families, and communities impacted by human trafficking crimes.
"As a survivor of severe trauma myself, I am intimately aware of the personal self-worth struggles that those who have been victimized endure and why it is also important that their basic needs of safety and survival are met."
Yolanda Christensen, Free To Fly Founder
HARD TRUTHS
The International Labour Organization estimates
that 49.5 million people were living in modern slavery in 2021. Of these, 27.5 million were in forced labor and 22 million were in forced marriage. Among the 27.5 million people in forced labor, 17.3 million were exploited in the private sector, 3.9 million were in state-imposed forced labor, and 6.3 million were victims of forced commercial sexual exploitation. Children account for 3.3 million of the 27.5 million in forced labor.
Although women and girls make up 78% (4.9 million) of those in forced commercial sexual exploitation, men and boys represent 65% (11.3 million) of those in forced labor in the private sector, and 78% (3.1 million) of those in state-imposed forced labor.
We also recognize that various other types of human trafficking crimes are being committed, including familial trafficking, organ trafficking, forced begging, and more. At Free To Fly, we are committed to focusing on all these areas.
Upcoming Outreach & Events
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
Yolanda is truly an inspiring individual. She has triumphed over a traumatic childhood marked by neglect and abuse, and has also experienced the dark realities of exploitation in this world. Despite these challenges, Yolanda's life took a positive turn when she met her husband Eric, who saw her potential and believed in her, even when she lacked confidence, education, and had endured numerous trials.
Yolanda pursued a career as an esthetician, practicing her craft for over 15 years. While she found fulfillment in her work, she felt a deep calling to use her past experiences and her passion for something greater. This led her to seek the help of an extremely qualified trauma specialist, Dr. Pierce, who played a significant role in Yolanda's journey of healing from her CPTSD. Yolanda considers Dr. Pierce was her greatest mentor, as she brought her freedom and courage to progress and grow.
Today, drawing from her own background and experiences, Yolanda provides support and guidance to those who have endured similar hardships, aiming to integrate everything she has learned along her journey, both personally and professionally.
Yolanda’s story is one of remarkable resilience and dedication to service. She continues to inspire us all to pursue our passions and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Featured Post
WHO WE ARE
Free To Fly is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to bring awareness, free and mend the brokenness of children, adolescents and adults affected by human trafficking. Even if reaching just one life, one life is worth it!
Private investors cover our operating costs so 100% of your donation, and the net proceeds from our eCommerce store, go directly to helping survivors affected by human trafficking.
Mending Broken Wings
so they are Free to Fly
PRODUCTS WE CARRY
OFFICIAL PARTNERSHIPS
The United States Department of Homeland Security and the United States Department of Transportation are Federal agencies of the United States Government and are separate and distinct entities from this Company.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Report Exploitation
If you think you have seen a missing child, or suspect a child may be sexually exploited, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 24/7 at (800) 843-5678.
If you see any signs of exploitation and trafficking call the Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line at (866) 347-2423 or email
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1
